RUSS6606

Word Formation

The rich word-formation possibilities of the Russian language allow for formation according to certain models. As a result of word-formation processes, there are many “clusters”—often dozens of words—that are created from one common root. Prefixes and suffixes add nuances of meaning and emotional coloring. Knowledge of word formation will help with comprehension of Russian texts, where authors frequently use neologisms that do not appear in dictionaries. This course will focus on the many ways in which Russian can create new words. Students’ grades will be based on in-class work, homework assignments, two tests, and a final written paper.